Russia Elbrus tragedy: Five Bosnian climbers die on Europe's highest peak; bad weather delays recovery of 3 bodies

Five Bosnian climbers were killed after being caught in a violent storm on Russia’s Mount Elbrus, Europe’s highest mountain, as rescue teams continued to battle bad weather that delayed the evacuation of three bodies, Russia’s state news agency RIA Novosti reported.

The climbers were part of a seven-member expedition on Mount Elbrus, which rises 5,642 meters (18,510 feet) near Russia’s border with Georgia. The mountain is known for rapidly changing weather and dangerous climbing conditions.

Two survivors were rescued

Russia’s Emergencies Ministry said rescue teams first evacuated the two surviving climbers from the mountain and took them for medical treatment. Rescuers then found the bodies of the two victims at an altitude of 5,350 meters (17,550 ft).

Three bodies have not yet been evacuated

The regional branch of the Russian Federation’s Investigative Committee said rescue teams later located the bodies of three other climbers. However, strong winds and poor weather conditions prevented their evacuation from the mountain.

Victims identified as Bosnian mountaineers

Although Russian authorities have not officially disclosed the nationalities of the victims, regional law enforcement agencies told RIA Novosti that all five deceased climbers were from Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Expedition from Zenica

Bosnian media reported that all seven members of the climbing expedition were residents of the central Bosnian town of Zenica. The group reportedly included a married couple and a female doctor employed at a local hospital.

Rescue work is complicated by harsh weather

Russian media reported that adverse weather conditions, including strong winds and poor visibility, significantly complicated search and rescue operations. Rescue teams continue to monitor conditions before attempting to evacuate the remaining bodies.

Mount Elbrus known for dangerous weather

With a height of 5,642 meters, Mount Elbrus is the highest mountain in Europe and a popular destination for climbers. However, its unpredictable weather, sudden storms and rapidly changing climbing conditions have made it prone to several fatal accidents over the years.